Young Lego fan given prosthetic arm built using real Lego

By Lauren Beavis

A young Lego fan has been given his own bespoke prosthetic arm - made with Lego.

Tobi, 8, had the limb made especially for him - and is covered with two pieces of Lego.

The Portsmouth Enablement Centre (PEC) made the limb for Tobi, who was born with a limb difference.

He has been a visitor to the PEC since he was just six months old.

Tobi’s mother, Debra, said: “The care Tobi receives from the team is phenomenal. Wayne, Jo and Dan go above and beyond.

"They really listen to what Tobi wants and do everything they can to make it happen.

"His new Lego-themed arm has been amazing - not only is it helping with everyday tasks, but he loves showing it off.

"Most importantly, the team always makes sure Tobi feels included every step of the way.

"We couldn’t ask for better care, and we’re so thankful for everything they do.”

A specialist team at the center, run by Steeper Group in partnership with Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust (PHU), works with patients to personalize the design and finish of their prosthetic devices.

Whether it is a favorite football team, superhero, or a much-loved family pet, patients can choose from NHS-provided designs or bring their own pyjamas, badges from shirts or fabric featuring their favorite character to be laminated onto their new socket.

The PEC assesses both adults and children with upper or lower limb loss and deficiencies.

Once assessed and deemed suitable for a prosthesis, patients receive a bespoke limb crafted in the center's in-house workshop, from casting to final build.

Some prosthetics are carefully designed to replicate skin tone and appearance, while others are built using lightweight carbon fibre and high-performance materials for enhanced mobility and durability.

Lucy Riddle, Prosthetics Clinical Manager at PEC, added: “Every device we make is bespoke.

"We work closely with each individual to ensure not only a comfortable fit, but also a design that reflects their personality.

"Both are equally important to a person’s confidence and well-being.

"Our technicians enjoy being creative, whether it’s crafting limbs with superhero designs or incorporating family photos, and the biggest reward is seeing the difference it makes to someone’s life.”